Articulating band saw and method

ABSTRACT

An articulating band saw apparatus provides a frame that includes a vertically extending section having upper and lower end portions. An elevator moves between the upper and lower end portions of the frame. A first hydraulic actuator is supported on the elevator for movement therewith. A first arm provides arm end portions, the first arm supported by the first hydraulic actuator. An end of the first arm supporting a second hydraulic actuator that is spaced away from the first hydraulic actuator. The second hydraulic actuator supports a second arm. An endless band type saw is mounted on the free end of the second arm generally opposite the second actuator. The band saw is movable by articulation of the first and second actuators and resulting movement of the first and second arms. In one embodiment, the band saw is a diamond wire saw.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/933,212, filed Jul. 2, 2013 (issuing as U.S. Pat. No. 8,696,245 onApr. 15, 2014), which is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/976,731, filed Dec. 22, 2010 (issued as U.S.Pat. No. 8,475,081 on Jul. 2, 2013), which was a continuationapplication of PCT Patent Application Serial Number PCT/US2009/050014,having international filing date of Jul. 9, 2009, which PCT Patentapplication in the United States was a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/170,004, filed Jul. 9, 2008 (issued asU.S. Pat. No. 7,645,093 on Jan. 12, 2010).

Priority of each of the above referenced is hereby claimed and each ofthe above referenced applications are incorporated herein by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX”

Not applicable

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for salvagingand cutting decommissioned oil and gas pipelines into sections. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatusfor cutting target material such as decommissioned oil and gas pipelinesinto sections as they are pulled from a seabed to a floating or fixedvessel such as a lift boat, and wherein an improved articulating bandsaw is movable in a generally vertically oriented plane, and in bothvertical and horizontal directions.

Salvaging or decommissioning of marine oil and gas pipelines is requiredafter those marine oil and gas pipelines are abandoned or have beendamaged such as by storms, hurricanes and the like. In a marineenvironment, oil and gas pipelines can be miles in length. In order todecommission and salvage such an oil and gas pipeline, the pipeline mustbe cut into sections. Typically, such decommissioned oil and gaspipelines are simply laying on the seabed.

In the past, “hot work” has been used to cut up pipe sections. “Hotwork” (e.g. cutting torch) has the potential for igniting residualhydrocarbons that may be present in the tubulars being cut. Suchresidual hydrocarbons can otherwise exist in a cutting environment suchas from nearby producing well bores.

Cold cutting of decommissioned oil and gas pipelines can be dangerous iffor example personnel are required to stand near or participate in thecutting operation. Workers can be injured because of sparking or flyingmetal debris. Workers directly involved in hot work or cold cutting canbe injured by falling material such as sections of material or pipe thathave been cut and lifted by a vessel or platform crane.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one embodiment is provided an improved method and apparatus forsalvaging or cutting of decommissioned oil and gas pipelines. Theapparatus employs an articulating band saw having a frame that includesa vertically extending section with upper and lower end portions. Anelevator moves upon the frame between upper and lower positions. Theelevator can be hydraulically powered, using a lifting cylinder orhydraulic cylinder.

In one embodiment a first hydraulic actuator is supported upon theelevator for up and down movement therewith. A first arm is providedhaving end portions, the first arm supported by the first hydraulicactuator connecting to the actuator at one arm end portion.

In one embodiment a second hydraulic actuator supported by the first armat a position opposite the first hydraulic actuator and at a second armend portion. The second hydraulic actuator also supports a second arm.

In one embodiment a band saw is mounted on the second arm generallyopposite the second actuator. The band saw is movable by articulation ofthe first and second actuators and the resulting movement of the firstand second arms.

In one embodiment the band saw is mounted on a hydraulic cylinder andpiston which in turn is mounted on the elevator, the hydraulic cylinderand piston generally providing side to side movement.

In one embodiment the articulating band saw of the present inventionutilizes an industrial type band saw designed to move horizontally andvertically to cut in a vertical plane so as to cut decommissioned oiland gas pipelines into sections as they are pulled from a seabed on to afloating or fixed vessel, such as a lift boat.

In one embodiment the blade of the band saw is driven by a hydraulicmotor specifically designed to maintain blade speed at a constant rpm,as specified by the blade manufacturer, with as few as two (2) toseventeen (17) gallons per minute flow rate. Motor torque isindependently and automatically maximized by applying up to about twothousand five hundred (2,500) pounds per square inch of hydraulicpressure that is determined by the cutting feed rate.

In one embodiment the band saw is mounted on two independent andremotely controlled hydraulic actuators that are connected to oneanother and to the saw via arms (e.g. aluminum arms).

In one embodiment the arms can be of varying lengths with their maximumlength determined by the constraints of the work area and the operatinglimits of the hydraulic actuators.

In one embodiment a separate hydraulic control panel allows remoteoperation of the cutting system to eliminate the need for personnel towork in or near the cutting zone. The hydraulic actuators workindependently via the remotely located hydraulic control panel to moveand position the cutting region of the saw in various locations along ahorizontal plane. This allows ease of positioning or repositioning ofthe cutting blade should the target material being cut not beconstrained to a single or constant point within the cutting region ofthe saw.

In one embodiment the saw can be raised (e.g. as high as about eightfeet vertically) above its mounting base via a hydraulic cylinder withthe elevator mechanically attached to the base actuator.

In one embodiment the feed or cutting rate of the saw blade iscontrolled by lowering the base actuator through releasing andcontrolling the hydraulic pressure on the lifting cylinder.

In one embodiment, once an optimal cut rate is determined by visualmonitoring, it can be maintained constant by the saw operator throughmonitoring of hydraulic pressure on the lifting cylinder via a pressuregauge and control valve mounted on the hydraulic control panel.Exemplary feed rate pressure for vertical cutting ranges can be betweenabout one hundred forty (140) and two hundred twenty (220) pounds persquare inch.

In one embodiment the articulating band saw system is designed fortopside (above water) cold cutting on land or offshore work sites, butmay be adapted for subsea cutting operations.

In one embodiment the band saw efficiently cuts steel, aluminum, orother materials including asphalt or plastic coated pipes often used inoil and gas pipelines.

In one embodiment the use of band saws for cold cutting tubular steelshas been demonstrated to be faster than other cold cutting methodsincluding guillotine and diamond wire saws.

In one embodiment band saw blades may be carbon steel, bi-metal steel ordiamond tipped and easily and quickly changed depending upon thematerial being cut.

In one embodiment the articulating band saw system can cut targetmaterial sized from one quarter (¼) inch up to thirteen (13) inchesouter diameter (O.D.) tubulars or rectangular shaped targets sized up toabout twenty-two (22) inches wide by about thirteen (13) inches inheight. Larger saws can be employed to cut larger sized materials.

In one embodiment the hydraulic actuators, arms, and band saw can bemodified to cut in a horizontal plane, such as to cut oil well tubularsinto sections as they are lifted vertically during removal from awellbore. This process normally occurs during oil and gas well pluggingand abandonment or decommissioning and removal operations.

In one embodiment the horizontal cutting application of the articulatingband saw of the present invention requires use of applied hydraulicpressure to the hydraulic actuator(s) to maximize and control thecutting rate, as opposed to a release of hydraulic pressure in thevertical cutting application.

In one embodiment cut rates are determined and maintained consistent bymonitoring hydraulic pressure applied to the actuating motor via apressure gauge instrument mounted on the operator control panel. In oneembodiment cutting speed of the cutting blade is maintained betweenabout 110 and 350 feet per minute depending on blade type andconstruction, and the material being cut.

In one embodiment may be employed a blade coolant and lubrication systemthat could utilize cooling fluid mediums such as water, cutting oil, orwater based lubricants.

In one embodiment, for liquid coolant/lubricants, a recirculation systemthat collects, contains and filters the coolant/lubricant for reuse canbe employed. This recirculation system minimizes coolant/lubricant useand potential environmental contamination.

In one embodiment expanding nitrogen gas may be used as a blade andtarget material coolant to reduce or eliminate heat generated byfriction of the blade against the target material.

In one embodiment a target cooling system can be used to solidify,harden, freeze a portion of the target material being cut. In oneembodiment insulation material around the pipe being cut is solidified,hardened, and/or frozen by the cooling system to reduce or minimize theamount of material which is picked up by the saw blade.

In one embodiment a video camera and light can be mounted on the saw toallow operator viewing of the saw position, determine optimal cuttingrate, and monitor the cutting process from a remote location. In oneembodiment the operator can be in an enclosed room when operating thesaw. In one embodiment the enclosed room can be air conditioned. In oneembodiment the operator can be on a different area of the vesselcompared to the location of the saw. In one embodiment the operator canbe on a different deck level compared to the location of the saw.

In one embodiment the remotely controlled horizontal applicationimproves the safety of cutting operations by eliminating hot work(cutting torch) and thereby mitigating the potential for ignitingresidual hydrocarbons that may be present in the tubulars being cut orthat otherwise may exist in the cutting environment from nearbyproducing well bores. Safety is improved by minimizing or eliminatingthe need for personnel to be in or near the cut zone during cuttingoperations (such as would be required when performing hot work). Thepresent invention minimizes or eliminates the need for personnel to beexposed to sparking or flying metal debris. The present inventionminimizes or eliminates the need for personnel to be exposed to fallingobjects, such as the section of material being cut and lifted by thevessel or platform crane.

In one embodiment the band saw cutting head may be interchanged with adiamond wire cutting head. Diamond wire cutting heads are designed towork with the articulating arm system in either the horizontal orvertical cutting configuration. Diamond wire cutting heads can utilize ahydraulic motor to power a drive wheel that rotates a continuous loop ofdiamond wire around three or four guide wheels or sheaves. The diamondwire feed rate can be controlled by applying pressure to one of thehydraulic actuators to push (or pull) the diamond wire through thetarget material being cut.

In various embodiments electrical motors can be used to replace thehydraulic motors and/or cylinders. In various embodiments the electricalmotors can be explosionproof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages ofthe present invention, reference should be had to the following detaileddescription, read in conjunction with the following drawings, whereinlike reference numerals denote like elements and wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a pipeline being pulled out of the water by a first crane;

FIG. 2 shows the pipeline being positioned for a cut by an articulatingsaw;

FIG. 3 shows the pipeline immediately before a cut with the first cranesupporting the pipe remaining in the water to prevent the remaining pipefrom falling into the water after the cut;

FIG. 4 is a front view of the articulating saw taken from the line 4-4in FIG. 3 (where the pipe to be cut is shown in sectional view);

FIG. 5 shows the articulating saw after a complete cut has been madethrough the pipeline;

FIG. 6 is a close up side view of the articulating saw and pipelineshown in FIG. 4 taken from the lines 6-6 in FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a sectional side view of the elevator and saw of FIG. 4showing the piston/cylinder arrangement of the elevator (where theelevator is in a lowered position);

FIG. 8 is a sectional side view of the elevator and saw of FIG. 4showing the piston/cylinder arrangement of the elevator (where theelevator is in a raised position);

FIG. 9 is a front view of the articulating saw being controlled by anoperator using a hydraulic control panel where the saw is shown with alubricating/cooling system;

FIG. 10 shows the cut section of pipe being moved to a storage locationby a second crane while the first crane supports the remaining pipe;

FIG. 11 shows the articulating saw after it has been moved to upwardlyand to the right in a vertical X-Y plane (compared to the position shownin FIG. 5) for making to making a cut in the pipeline;

FIG. 12 shows the articulating saw after it has been moved upwardly andto the left in a vertical X-Y plane (compared to the position shown inFIG. 5) for making a cut in the pipeline where the pipeline is in asimilar position in the vertical plane;

FIG. 13 shows the articulating saw in two different rotational positionscompared to the horizontal position shown in FIG. 5) while remaining inthe vertical X-Y plane;

FIG. 14 shows the articulating saw in an angled position (angle “A”)about to start a cut on a target pipeline;

FIG. 15 is a side view of the saw showing the retainer plate;

FIG. 16 is a sectional view of the retainer plate taken along the line16-16 of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 shows an alternative version of an articulating saw where thesaw and its two pivoting joints have been rotated ninety degreesrelative to the X-Y plane shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the saw of Figure taken along the line18-18 of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 shows an alternative articulating saw having a sliding boom, thesaw blade being shown in an angled position (angle “A”) about to start acut on a target pipeline;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an alternative articulating diamondwire saw having three articulating joints;

FIGS. 21 through 23 show the articulating diamond wire saw of FIG. 20 invarious articulated positions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-16 show the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the presentinvention, designated generally by the numeral 10. In FIGS. 1-16, pipecutting system 10 employs a barge or vessel 11 having a deck 12. Thebarge/vessel 11 is shown floating on water surface 13 above seabed 14that contains a pipeline 28 to be salvaged. The pipeline 28 is typicallya decommissioned oil and gas well pipeline.

Mounted upon deck 12 of barge 11 is first lift apparatus or crane 15.Spaced away from first lift apparatus or crane 15 can be provided asecond lift apparatus or crane 16. First lift apparatus 15 provides liftline 17. Second lift apparatus 16 provides lift line 18. A stinger 19 isconnected to barge 11 and extends downwardly from deck 12 to watersurface 13 as shown in FIGS. 1-3, and 6.

An articulating band saw 20 is placed upon deck 12 of vessel 11. Aplurality of pipe supports 21-25 can also be placed at spaced apartintervals along deck 12 as shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 10. Each of the pipesupports 21-25 can employ a roller such as the pipe support roller 36shown in the drawings.

A winch 26 on deck 12 has a winch cable 27. The winch 26 and winch cable27 enable the pipeline 28 to be pulled along the deck 12 to thepositions shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In the position shown in FIGS. 2-3 and6, the pipeline 28 can be cut into sections and then stored in a piperack or stacked upon deck 12 as part of salvaging operations.

In FIG. 1 is shown rigging 29 that can include slings, hooks, cables,chains is attached to pipe end 30 and to the lower end portion of crane15 lift line 17. Arrow 31 in FIG. 1 illustrates the lifting of end 30 ofpipeline 28 with lift line 17.

In FIG. 2, pipe end 31 is connected to winch cable 27 using a connection33 that can include similar rigging to the rigging 29 that was employedin FIG. 2. The winch cable 27 is pulled using winch 26 so that the pipeend 30 (and pipeline 28) advances in the direction of arrows 32, 34 inFIG. 2. FIG. 3 shows a cutting position wherein articulating band saw 20cuts pipeline 28.

In FIGS. 4-9 and 11-16, articulating band saw 20 is shown in moredetail. Articulating band saw 20 can include a pipe support frame 35that provides a roller 36. In FIG. 4, pipeline 28 is resting upon roller36 of pipe support frame 35. Pipe support frame 35 can be provided bythe vessel 11 upon which articulating saw is being used.

A saw support frame 40 can be positioned next to pipe support frame 35as shown in the drawings. The saw support frame 40 can provide a foot orother base 41 attached to deck 12 using one or more fasteners 42. Column43 extends upwardly from foot 41. The column 43 contains a hydrauliccylinder 100 or lift cylinder and rod 110 that moves elevator 47 up anddown (schematically indicated by arrows 150 and 152 in FIGS. 4-8). Anelongated vertical slot 44 is receptive of elevator 47. Column 43provides upper end portion 45 and lower end portion 46. As schematicallyindicated by arrow 150 (upwards motion) and arrow 152 (downwardsmotion), the elevator 47 can be raised and lowered using the hydrauliccylinder or other lift cylinder 100 (such as is commonly used withautomobile lifts). FIG. 7 is a sectional side view of the elevator 47and saw 50 showing the cylinder/rod 100/110 arrangement of the elevator47 (where the elevator 47 is in a lowered position). FIG. 8 is asectional side view of the elevator 47 and saw 50 showing thecylinder/rod 100/110 arrangement of the elevator 47 (where the elevator47 is in a raised position).

In FIGS. 4-9 and 11-16, a pair of hydraulic actuators 48 and 49 areprovided. Actuator 48 can be mounted on elevator 47 and travels withelevator 47 as it moves up and down (arrows 150 and 152) between upperend portion 45 and lower end portion 46 of column 43. As schematicallyindicated by arrows 154 actuator 48 can rotate both clockwise andcounterclockwise. A second actuator 49 can be connected to actuator 48using arm 55. As schematically indicated by arrows 156 actuator 49 canrotate both clockwise and counterclockwise. Arm 55 as shown in FIG. 4can be an elongated arm having end portions, with hydraulic actuator 48mounted at one end portion of arm 55 and hydraulic actuator 49 mountedto the opposite end of arm 55. A second arm 56 can be attached tohydraulic actuator 49. Second arm 56 can extend between actuator 49 andband saw housing 51.

The actuators 48, 49 and arms 55, 56 can define an articulating boom 140having two rotational degrees of freedom (arrows 154 indicating therotational degree of freedom for actuator 48 and arrows 156schematically indicating the rotational degree of freedom for actuator49).

Elevator 47 can provide a linear degree of freedom (arrows 150 and 152schematically indicating a linear degree of freedom for elevator 47).

Because articulating saw 20 is operatively connected to boom 140 andelevator 47, articulating saw 20 can have three (3) degrees of freedomeach of which can be controlled by an operator 61 using a control panel60.

Articulating band saw 20 can comprise band saw 50. Band saw 50 canincludes band saw housing 51 supporting an endless band 53 having aplurality of saw teeth 54. A hydraulic motor drive 52 can be operativelyconnected to and driving band 53. Hydraulic motor drive 52 can beoperatively connected to band 53 by a direct drive, geared drive, chainand sprocket, and/or a pulley and belt system.

In order to cut through pipeline 28 using band saw 50, the band sawhousing 51 can be lowered as indicated by arrow 67 in FIG. 5. The bandsaw 50 can be lowered by lowering elevator 47 in the direction of arrow152 which also lowers arms 55, 56 and frame 51. Because elevator 47 ishydraulically powered to elevate (arrow 150) or lower (arrow 152) usinga hydraulic cylinder 110, decreasing hydraulic pressure to cylinder 100allows the weight of saw 20 and its connected assembly to providedownwards pressure (in the direction of arrow 67) on saw blade 53 as sawblade 53 powers or cuts through pipeline 28. In an alternativeembodiment a piston can be connected to rod 110, and downward movementof elevator 47 can be affirmatively powered by hydraulic pressurepushing downwardly on the piston connected to rod 110 of hydrauliccylinder 100, and upward movement obtained by hydraulic fluid pushingupwardly.

All hydraulic functions can be controlled by an operator 61 at hydrauliccontrol panel 60. The hydraulic control panel 60 can provide controlsand/or levers 62 that are manipulated by operator 61. Hydraulic controlpanel 60 can also provide instruments 63 such as hydraulic pressuregauges and/or hydraulic flow meters that can be viewed by the operator61 during use. Controls/levers 62 can be used to operate the liftcylinder that raises and lowers elevator 47, hydraulic actuators 48, 49,and hydraulic motor drive 52. Hydraulic control panel can also includeautomatic shutoff lever 125 which, when activated, can shutoffoperations of drive motor 52, hydraulic actuators 48 and 49, along withcylinder 100 and rod 110.

In one embodiment control panel 60 can be located in a position whereoperator 61 can visualize operation of saw 20. In one embodiment controlpanel 60 can be positioned remote from saw 20 where operator 61 can viewactivities of saw 20 through a video monitor. For example, control panel60 can be located in an air conditioned part of the vessel or barge 12(such as on a different deck).

Actuators 48, 49 can be model numbers L30-25-E-FT-180-S2-0-Hmanufactured by Helac Corporation out of Enumclaw, Wash.

In one embodiment saw blade 53 can be rotated by motor drive 52 in thedirection of arrow 90. Because pipeline 28 is not held down in a singleposition during a cut, pipeline 28 will tend to move in the direction ofmovement of saw blade 53 (e.g., arrow 90. In one embodiment a retainer200 is connected to saw housing 51. FIG. 15 is a side view of the saw 50showing the retainer plate 200. FIG. 16 is a sectional view of theretainer plate 200 taken along the line 16-16 of FIG. 15. As shown inFIGS. 15 and 16, retainer 200 can comprise brace portion 210 and bearingportion 220. Bearing portion 220 is preferably a friction loweringmaterial such as teflon and is sized to reduce side stress placed onpipeline 28. In one embodiment bearing portion 220 is at least ½, ¾, 1,1½, and/or 2 inches wide. In one embodiment retainer 200 can form anabout 90 degree angle with the direction of movement of saw blade 53 (asshown in FIG. 4).

In one embodiment retainer 200 can be angled in relation to thedirection of movement of saw blade 53 (e.g., as schematically indicatedby angle “B” in FIG. 14). In one embodiment, the angle of retainer 200to saw blade 53 can be about 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20,25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 degrees. Various embodiments the angle ofretainer 200 to movement of saw blade 53 can be between about any two ofthe specified angles. In various embodiments the angle “B” of retainer200 can be adjustable relative to saw blade 53. In various embodimentsthe angle of retainer 200 can be adjusted between about any two of thespecified angles. In various embodiments an operator 61 can use retainer200 to position saw blade 53 for making a cut on pipeline 28. In variousembodiments retainer 200 can be straight, while in other embodiments theretainer can be curved (either convexly or concavely) in relation to thepipeline 28 being cut.

After the saw band or blade 53 cuts through pipeline 28, a cut section57 of pipe is created, being supported upon pipe supports 22-25. In FIG.10, the cut section 57 of pipe is shown being lifted with second crane16 and its lift line 18 (schematically indicated by arrow 59 in FIG.10). Arrow 58 illustrates the path that is traveled by cut section 57 ofpipe as it is moved from pipe supports 22-25 to a storage position ondeck 12 such as a pipe rack or to another vessel (e.g. barge).

FIG. 9 shows control panel 60, an operator 61, controls or levers 62,and instruments or gauges 63. FIG. 9 also shows an optionallubricating/cooling system. The lubricating/cooling system employsheader 64 or other conduit, a pair of nozzles 65, each nozzle generatinga fluid spray 66 of cooling fluid or lubricating fluid to the area ofpipeline 28 that is to be cut. The lubrication system can be reclaimedusing catch basin 38 which is positioned under the area of pipeline 28being cut. In one embodiment a target cooling system can be used tosolidify, harden, freeze a portion of the pipeline 28 being cut. In oneembodiment insulation material around pipeline 28 being cut issolidified, hardened, and/or frozen by the cooling system to reduce orminimize the amount of material which is picked up by saw blade 54.

After the cut section 57 of pipe has been removed from the pipe supports22-25, winch line 27 is again connected to pipeline 28, and pipeline 28is pulled along supports 22-25 for another section 57′ (not shown in thefigures) to be cut looking similar to the position originally shown inFIG. 3. An additional cut is then made to create a second cut section57′ of pipe. This process of pulling pipeline 28 and cutting sections57, 57′, 57″, etc. can be repeated until pipeline 28 has been completelyremoved from the seabed 14. In this manner pipeline 28 can be salvagedand decommissioned.

One challenge occurring during the cutting off pipeline 28 is thevarious positions the center “C” of pipeline 28 can be when it is to becut. It is difficult to ensure that the center “C” of pipeline 28 willalways be at the same X-Y Cartesian position in a vertical plane fromcut to cut. In FIG. 12, the pipe position is designated generally as 68.In FIG. 11, the pipe position is designated generally as 69. In thesecases, notice that the articulating arms 55, 56 (and elevator 47) ofarticulating saw 20 allow saw frame 51 to change in position responsiveto movement of actuator 48 (schematically indicated by arrows 154);actuator 49 (schematically indicated by arrows 156); and elevator 47(schematically indicated by arrows 150 and 152) to adjust position ofsaw frame 51 and blade 53 to make a cut regardless of where pipeline 28is located in the vertical X-Y plane.

FIGS. 9-16 illustrate that the saw apparatus 20 can cut pipeline 28 evenif pipeline 28 is in a position spaced away from roller 36. In FIGS. 9and 11, the saw 50 has been moved upwardly and to the right in avertical X-Y plane (when compared to the position shown in FIG. 4) formaking a cut in the pipeline 28. FIG. 12 shows the articulating saw 50after it has been moved upwardly and to the left in a vertical X-Y plane(when compared to the position shown in FIG. 5) for making a cut in thepipe.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show that the articulating saw 20 can be placed indifferent relative rotational positions compared to the generallyhorizontal position (schematically indicated by the “X” axis) shown inFIG. 5 while still remaining in a vertical X-Y plane. These tworotational positions (designated 70 and 71 in FIG. 13) are shown inphantom lines and in hard lines. The rotational position 70 is in hardlines while the rotational position 71 is in phantom lines.

FIG. 14 shows the articulating saw 20 in an angled position (angle “A”)and about to start a cut on a target pipeline 28 where center “C” ofpipeline 28 is positioned as shown. In this embodiment retainer 200 isangled (at an angle “B” from the direction of movement of saw blade 53(schematically indicated by arrow 90)). In one embodiment angle “A” canbe about equal to angle “B”. It has been found that by making angle Band angle “A” about 10 degrees vibration or chatter between saw blade 53and pipeline 28 can be substantially reduced, minimized, and/oreliminated during the cut especially where pipeline 28 is in the air(e.g., located above pipe support roller 36).

FIGS. 17 and 18 show an alternative version of an articulating saw 50′where the saw 20A and its two pivoting joints (48 and 49) have beenrotated ninety degrees relative to the X-Y plane shown in FIG. 16causing blade 53 to be contained in a generally horizontal plane (theZ-X Plane) which is generally parallel to the “X” axis and generallyperpendicular to the plane containing the “X” and “Y” axes of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the saw 50 taken along the line 18-18 ofFIG. 17. Rotating saw 50 by ninety (90) degrees allows saw 50 to makegenerally horizontal cuts through control of hydraulic actuators 48(schematically indicated by arrows 154) and 49 (schematically indicatedby arrows 156) articulating boom 140 which boom 140 includes arms 55 and56. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, retainer 200 can beangled (at an angle “B” from the direction of movement of saw blade 53(schematically indicated by arrow 90)). Elevator 47 can move verticallyin the directions of arrow 150 and 152 (similar to the otherembodiments). Blade 53 can be moved generally in the directions ofarrows 280 or 282 (FIG. 18) by operator 61 at control panel 60 byselective articulating actuators 48 and/or 49 in to pivot about theiraxes of rotation “R” respectively in the directions of arrows 154 and156. By selective pivoting of actuators 49 and/or 49 the Z-X location ofblade 53 can be controlled by operator 61. Additionally, the angle ofcut between saw blade 53 (moving in the direction of arrow 90) and thetarget material 250 can be controlled by operator 61. In this case theangle of cut would be angle “A” shown in FIG. 16 although angle “A” nowbeing in the Z-X plane instead of the X-Y plane. In one embodiment angle“A” can be about equal to angle “B” and can be about 5, 10, and/or 15degrees.

In FIG. 17 the target material 250 can be a tubular, drill string,piping, or other casing which is to be removed from a well bore and/orriser. As schematically shown in FIG. 17 a lift line 17 can be attachedto the target material 250 such as through use of a support rod 260.Support rod 260 can be installed in target 250 by drilling holes andthen sliding in support rod 260, and then attaching lift line 17 (whichlift line can be connected to a vessel's crane 15) to support rod 260.In this embodiment it is preferred that vessel 11 be a jack up vessel. Asecond support rod 262 could similarly by installed in target 250 at alower level; and the second support rod 262 could itself be supported byremaining riser portion 272 or wellhead or other supporting device—sothat second support rod 262 supports remaining target portion 256 oftarget after a cut is made.

Operator 61 moves saw 50′ and blade 53 in the Z-X location of choicebeginning a cut using actuators 48 and/or 49. Preferably, target istouching retainer 200 and an angle “A” is made with blade 53 which isabout equal to angle “B” between retainer 200 and the direction ofmovement 90 of blade 53. The generally horizontal cut is made with blade53 an upper section 252 of target 250 to be separated. Upper section oftarget 252 can be moved by crane 15 to a storage location (and supportrod 260 removed for reuse). Next, lift line 17 can be connected tosupport rod 262 and remaining portion 256 of target 250 can be lifted inthe direction of arrow 150 so that support rod 262 is generally in theposition of support rod 260 of FIG. 17. Support rod 260 (or a newsupport rod) can then be placed in remaining target 250 around theoriginal position of support rod 262 shown in FIG. 17 (such as bydrilling holes in target 250). A new cut can be made by saw 51 with thenewly cut off piece lifted by crane 15 (and lift line 17) to a storagelocation. Remaining target 250 will be supported by the lower supportrod on remaining riser portion 272 or wellheld or other supportingdevice. These steps of cutting, lifting, stowing, and re-cutting can berepeated until entire target 250 has been removed.

FIG. 19 shows an alternative articulating saw 20B having a sliding boom170, the saw blade 53 being shown in an angled position (angle “A”)about to start a cut on a target pipeline 28. In this alternativeembodiment a sliding boom 170 replaces the dual hydraulic actuators 48and 49 of articulating boom 140. Articulating boom 170 can include track172 having first 173 and second 174 ends with a slot 175 spanningbetween these ends. Saw 50 can be supported by boom 170 via support arms190 and 192. Support arms 190 and 192 can be slidably connected to trackvia rollers 176 and 177. Hydraulic cylinder 180 and rod 182 can beoperatively connected to support arm 190 (and/or 192) to providecontrolled movement of saw 50 in the direction of arrows 164. Operator61 can use control panel 61 to selectively control movement of rod 182in the direction of arrow 160 and/or arrow 162. Boom 170 can beconnected to elevator 47, and like the other embodiments verticalmovement of saw 50 (in the directions of arrow 150 and/or 152) can beobtained by operator 61 using control panel to raise or lower elevator47. By selective movements of elevator 47 (in the direction of arrow 150and/or 152) and rod 182 (in the direction of arrow 160 and/or 162) sawblade 53 can be selectively positioned in any X-Y position in a verticalplane to make a cut on pipeline 28 depending on the position of itslongitudinal center “C.” Unlike the other embodiments, this embodimentdoes not include the ability of operator to selectively control therotational position of saw blade 53 relative to a horizontal line H(i.e., varying angle “A” while simultaneously moving in one of the otherdirections (e.g., arrows 150,152,160, and/or 162). Instead, during anyone cut its rotational position “A” can be determined by the length “L”of support arm 190. As with other embodiments angle “B” of retainer ispreferably about the same as angle “A.” In an alternative embodiment thelength “L” of support arm can be adjustable (such as by using anadjustment slot in the connection between support arm 190 and roller176), which would provide operator 61 the option of varying angle “A” atleast between cuts. In this embodiment angle “B” would also preferablybe adjustable. In another alternative embodiment the length “L” ofsupport arm 190 could be adjustably varied such as by putting a verticaltrack and cylinder connection between support arm 190 and saw 50(similar to horizontal track 175 and cylinder 180). As the length “L” ofsupport arm 190 varies, support arm 192 will pivot on roller 177relative to horizontal line “H.”

FIGS. 20-23 show another alternate embodiment of the apparatus of thepresent invention, designated generally by the numeral 72. In FIGS.20-23, an articulating diamond wire saw 72 is provided. The articulatingdiamond wire saw 72 is positioned by three hydraulic actuators 73, 74,75. The actuator 73 is attached to a frame or elevator 76. Arm 77connects actuator 73 to actuator 74. Arm 78 connects actuator 74 toactuator 75. A generally u-shaped frame 79 supports diamond wire 80. Thediamond wire 80 can be supported with a plurality of roller guides 84,85, 86. The roller guide 84 can be powered using a hydraulic motor.U-shaped frame 79 provides a concavity 82 that is in between two arms orends 82, 83. FIGS. 18-20 show various positions of U-shaped frame 79relative to pipeline 28 when making a cut. The articulating arms 77, 78as controlled by actuator 73, 74, 75 enable the diamond wire 80 to beplaced in multiple positions for assisting in a cutting of pipeline 28.

Methods of Use

In one embodiment the method includes the step of articulating actuator48 in a first rotational direction. In one embodiment the methodincludes the step of articulating actuator 48 in a second rotationaldirection, the second rotational direction being the opposite of thefirst rotational direction. In one embodiment the method includes thesteps of articulating actuator 48 in opposite first and secondrotational directions.

In one embodiment the method includes the step of articulating actuator48 in a first rotational direction. In one embodiment the methodincludes the step of articulating actuator 49 in a second rotationaldirection, the second rotational direction being the opposite of thefirst rotational direction. In one embodiment the method includes thesteps of articulating actuator 49 in opposite first and secondrotational directions.

In one embodiment the method includes the step of articulating actuators48 and 49 in a first rotational direction. In one embodiment the methodincludes the step of articulating actuators 48 and 49 in a secondrotational direction, the second rotational direction being the oppositeof the first rotational direction. In one embodiment the method includesthe steps of articulating actuators 48 and 49 in opposite first andsecond rotational directions.

In one embodiment the method includes the step of moving elevator 47 ina first linear direction. In one embodiment the method includes the stepof moving elevator 47 in a second linear direction, the second lineardirection being the opposite of the first linear direction. In oneembodiment the method includes the steps of moving elevator 47 inopposite first and second linear directions.

In one embodiment the method includes the step of articulating actuators48 and 49 in a first rotational direction and elevator 47 in a firstlinear direction. In one embodiment the method includes the step ofarticulating actuators 48 and 49 in a second rotational direction andelevator 47 in a second linear direction, the second rotationaldirection being the opposite of the first rotational direction, thesecond linear direction being the opposite of the first lineardirection. In one embodiment the method includes the steps ofarticulating actuators 48 and 49 in opposite first and second rotationaldirections, and elevator 47 in opposite first and second lineardirections.

In one embodiment the method includes the step of, while making a cut onpipeline 28, increasing the speed of saw blade 53, decreasing the speedof saw blade 53, and then increasing the speed of saw blade 53.

In one embodiment the method includes the step of, while making a cut onpipeline 28, decreasing the feed rate of saw blade 53, increasing thefeed rate of saw blade 53, and then decreasing the feed rate of sawblade 53.

In one embodiment the method includes the step of, while making a cut onpipeline 28, repositioning the angle A saw blade 53 has with ahorizontal line H. In one embodiment the method includes the step of,while making a cut on pipeline 28, moving saw blade 53 out of the cutslot in pipeline 28 when the cut slot had been made with saw blade 53 atan angle A, and then starting the same cut with saw blade 53 at anotherangle A′ which is different than angle A.

In one embodiment the saw blade 53 is used to make a first cut on apipeline 28 at a first vertical height, and control panel 60 is used tomove saw blade 53 to a second vertical height for a second cut onpipeline 28, the second vertical height being spaced apart from thefirst vertical height by at least 6 inches, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,and/or 10 feet. In various embodiments the spacing can be between aboutany two of the specified distances. In various embodiments the change inposition can be in the same X-Y vertical plane.

In one embodiment the saw blade 53 is used to make a first cut on apipeline 28 at a first horizontal location, and control panel 60 is usedto move saw blade 53 to a second horizontal location for a second cut onpipeline 28, the second horizontal location being spaced apart from thefirst horizontal location by at least 6 inches, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, and/or 10 feet. In various embodiments the spacing can be betweenabout any two of the specified distances. In various embodiments thechange in position can be in the same X-Y vertical plane.

In one embodiment the saw blade 53 is used to make a first cut on apipeline 28 at a first vertical height and a first horizontal location,and control panel 60 is used to move saw blade 53 to a second verticalheight and a second horizontal location for a second cut on pipeline 28,the second vertical height being spaced apart from the first verticalheight by at least 6 inches, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and/or 10 feet;and the second horizontal location being spaced apart from the firsthorizontal location by at least 6 inches, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,and/or 10 feet. In various embodiments the vertical and horizontalspacings can be between about any two of the specified distances. Invarious embodiments the change in positions can be in the same X-Yvertical plane.

In one embodiment the saw blade 53 is used to make a first cut on apipeline 28 at a first angle A from a horizontal line H, and controlpanel 60 is used to move saw blade 53 to a second angle A′ from ahorizontal line H for a second cut on pipeline 28, the second angle A′being shifted from the first angle A by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and/or 45 degrees. In various embodimentsthe angular shifting can be between about any two of the specifiedangular shifts. In various embodiments the change in position can be inthe same X-Y vertical plane.

In one embodiment is provided a method of salvaging a decommissionedmarine pipeline 28 from a seabed 14, comprising the steps of:

a) providing a vessel 11 having a deck 12;

b) rigging a lift line 17 between the vessel 11 and the pipeline 28;

c) lifting the pipeline 28 to position an end portion of the pipeline onthe vessel deck 12, and wherein the pipeline 28 extends between thevessel deck 12 and the seabed 14;

d) providing an articulating saw 20, the articulating saw having anarticulating boom 150, the articulating boom 150 comprising ahydraulically powered elevator 47 along with at least two spaced apartrotating hydraulic actuators 48 and 49;

e) cutting the pipeline 28 on the vessel 11 with the band saw 20 that ishydraulically powered by a hydraulic motor 52 and hydraulically movablewith the articulating boom 150; and

f) wherein the saw 20 in steps “e” and “f” the band saw 20 can beselectively positioned in a generally vertical plane in multiplepositions that are vertically spaced apart and that are horizontallyspaced apart.

In one embodiment the boom 150 includes multiple hydraulic actuators 48and 49 and further comprising independently controlling each actuatorwith hydraulics.

In one embodiment the elevator 47 and hydraulic actuators 48 and 49 areremotely controlled from a remotely located control panel 60.

In one embodiment the band saw 20 is movable horizontally and verticallyby the hydraulic actuators 48 and 49.

In one embodiment the control panel 60 enables an operator 61 to controlthe band saw 20 from a position that is spaced away from the saw blade54.

In one embodiment the saw blade 54 can be positioned with the hydraulicactuators 48 and 49 at an angle (angle “A”) relative to a generallyhorizontal line “H”.

In one embodiment the band saw 20 has a hydraulic motor torque that ismaximized by applying up to about two thousand five hundred (2,500)pounds per square inch of hydraulic pressure that is determined by thecutting feed rate.

In one embodiment in steps “d” and “e” the actuators 48 and 49 areindependently controllable with the control panel 60.

In one embodiment the elevator 47 travels between elevated and loweredpositions upon a frame 40, and a hydraulic lift cylinder 100 connectsbetween the frame 40 and the elevator 47.

In one embodiment the control panel 60 has a pressure gauge formonitoring hydraulic pressure of the lift cylinder 100, a lift cylindercontrol valve that enables control of elevator 47 position, and whereina saw 20 cutting rate (e.g., movement in the direction of arrow 152) canbe controlled by operator 61 monitoring of the pressure gauge and byoperator control of the lift cylinder 100 control valve.

In one embodiment the movement of saw 20 in the direction of arrow 47 iscontrolled by control of the release rate of fluid from hydrauliccylinder 110. In this embodiment, in order for hydraulic rod 110 to movein the direction of arrow 150, hydraulic fluid can be pumped intocylinder 100 causing rod 110 to move in the direction of arrow 150 andcausing elevator 47 (and saw body 51) to move in the direction of arrow150. In order for saw body 51 to move in the direction of arrow 152,hydraulic fluid can be released from cylinder 100 causing rod 110 andelevator 47 to move in the direction of arrow 152. Now the speed ofmovement of rod 110 can be controlled by the amount of fluid releasedfrom cylinder 100 such as though use of a valve. The amount of fluidleaving cylinder 100 is dependent on the pressure inside cylinder 100,the pressure outside of cylinder 100, and the restriction by the valve.The pressure inside cylinder 100 is dependent on the weight of saw 20along with the reaction force placed on saw blade 53 by pipeline 28 whenbeing cut with saw blade 53. To slow down the feed rate of (and reducethe reaction force on) saw blade 53, the operator 61 can increasingpartially close the valve allowing fluid to exit cylinder 100. Toincrease the feed rate the operator can increasingly partially open thevalve until a desired feed rate pressure is obtained. The feed rate(movement of saw 20 in the direction of arrow 152) will be a function ofthe reaction force (in the direction of arrow 150) of pipeline 28 on sawblade 53.

In one embodiment the band saw 20 includes a cooling fluid delivery flowline 65 that enables transmission of cooling fluid to the saw blade 54.

In one embodiment the band saw 20 includes a camera 300 (not shown) thatenables viewing of the cutting blade 54 and a monitor 210 (not shown)next to the control panel 60 that enables the operator 61 to view thecutting blade 54 during cutting.

In one embodiment in step “d” the saw is a diamond wire saw 72.

In one embodiment the speed of the cutting blade 54 can be monitored byoperator 61 at control panel 60. In one embodiment monitoring of bladespeed is performed by monitoring the amount of fluid flow through drivemotor 52. In one embodiment a flow meter (not shown) is connected todrive motor 52 and included in control panel 60 which allows operator 61to monitor the flow rate through drive motor 52. In one embodiment thisflow rate is cross referenced to linear speed rate of saw blade 54. Inone embodiment this correlation is made with blade speed in feet perminute and/or centimeters per minute. This option will allow differentblade 54 speeds to be selected for different blades used on the samecutting job. This option will also allow the operator to control thefeed rate (i.e., the rate at which blade 54 feeds through the targetmaterial, e.g., movement of saw 50 generally in the directions of arrows152 or 150) based on the speed of the blade 54. For example, where thespeed of blade 54 drops, the operator 61 can reduce the feed rate of thesaw 50 at least until a desired blade speed is obtained, where after thefeed rate can be increased.

EXAMPLE CUTTING JOB

Below is provided various steps in an example cutting job.

1. Job to be performed is discussed at length with Customer andassociated engineers. Details including, but not limited to, toolingplacement on vessel 11, shipboard power requirements, water depth, pipesizes to be cut, offshore location, departure dock and safetyorientation.

2. Articulating Band Saw 20 and support equipment can be prepared andfunction tested prior to transport. All items can be dispatched througha predetermined shipment carrier to the departure dock.

3. Articulating Band Saw 20 and support equipment can be transported viacustomer's supply vessel to the work location that could be a platform,drilling rig, drill ship, work barge 11, dive boat, or lift boat.

4. Equipment is offloaded via work platform crane 15 and placed on deck12 in accordance with the vessel Captain or tool pusher's instructions.

5. All equipment is inspected by operator 61 personnel for transportdamage.

6. Once equipment is placed and secured to the deck 12 or pipe supportframe 35 via welding or bolting, the hydraulic control panel 60 isconnected to a hydraulic power unit via one inch hydraulic supply andreturn lines.

7. A bundle of seven (7) one-half (½) inch control hoses can be used toconnect between saw control panel 60 and articulating band saw 20.

8. Control panel 60 may be located anywhere on vessel 11 within thelength of the hoses contained in the connecting hose bundle, and bespaced apart from articulating band saw 20.

9. A continuous band saw blade 53 is installed in band saw 20.

-   -   a. Blade 53 can be selected based upon the type (round, square,        solid, pipe, etc.) and hardness (i.e. carbon content, such as        4140, Stainless, etc) of the target material 30 to be cut.    -   b. The type of blade selected defines the required blade speed        that may be between 110 and 300 feet per minute as specified by        the blade manufacturer. Blade speeds can exceed 300 feet per        minute with system pressures less than 2,000 psi.

10. Operator 61 starts the hydraulic power unit and adjusts theappropriate output system pressure between 2,000 and 2,500 pounds persquare inch.

-   -   a. The system pressure determines the amount of torque applied        by motor drive 52 to blade 53 drive wheel. System pressure is        defined by the operating limits of the hydraulic motor 52 and        the pressure requirements of the actuator motors 48 and 49 to        lift the weight of the attached load (saw 20). Minimum system        pressure for band saw 20 can be 2,000 pounds per square inch.        Below this level, actuators 48 and 49 may not lift the weight of        saw 20. Operation pressure can be set on a hydraulic power unit        and system pressure can be monitored on control panel 60.    -   b. Normal cutting operation is between 1,200 pounds per square        inch and 1,600 pounds per square inch at the motor. Higher        torque requirements will automatically increase motor pressure        until the system pressure level is reached, at which point the        hydraulic fluid by-passes internal to drive motor 525 causing it        to cog or stall. The maximum continuous operating pressure for        the hydraulic motor used in band saw 20 is 2,500 pounds per        square inch.

11. Generally, the flow rate of the hydraulic system fluid measured ingallons per minute (gpm) can determine the speed of the band saw blade53 in feet per minute (fpm). The higher the flow rate, the faster theblade speed.

-   -   a. Blade 53 speed can be controlled via an infinitely variable        flow control valve on control panel 60.    -   b. Flow rate can be measured and monitored via a flow meter (in        gpm) mounted on control panel 60.    -   c. In a preferred embodiment, the operating range for band saw        20 at maximum system pressure (2,500 psi) is 3 gpm to 7 gpm,        yielding a blade speed of 100 fpm to 270 fpm. Higher continuous        blade speeds can be obtained by lowering the system pressure.

12. Once band saw 20 articulation and blade 53 revolution is tested anddeemed good, a blade observation camera 300 and light are attached andtested via the video monitor 310 and recording system.

13. Target material 28, can be a pipeline up to 13 inches in outsidediameter, is drawn over the pipe support frame 35. Operator 61manipulates band saw 20 into cutting position via the hydraulic elevator47 contained in the saw column 40 and movement of two independenthydraulic actuators 48 and 49.

14. Once band saw blade 53 is in the desired cut position over thetarget material 28, blade 53 is started and brought to desired speed viamonitoring of hydraulic fluid flow rate to the saw's drive motor.

15. Operator 61 can lower (in direction of arrow 152) saw 20 to beginthe cut by relieving pressure on the lifting elevator 47 via a pressurecontrol valve located on the control panel 60.

-   -   a. The rate of cut and blade 53 speed can be constantly        monitored by operator 60. The initial cut rate (the speed at        which blade 53 cuts through the target 28 material) is held slow        until the full height of blade 53 (about 1 inch) penetrates the        target 28. Placing the full thickness of blade 53 into target 28        before increasing the feed rate resists blade 53 bending and        cutting off line at an angle or breaking Feed rate can be        controlled by controlling bleed pressure from 210 pounds per        square inch to 190 pounds per square inch on the feed pressure        indicator gauge.    -   b. Blade 53 speed can be monitored during the initial cut period        and increased as necessary to maintain the predetermined speed.        (Blade 53 slows from its ‘free spin’ speed in air when it        contacts target 28 due to friction and cutting action on target        28, requiring a slight increase in flow rate to maintain proper        speed).    -   c. The cut rate can be visually monitored by operator 61 and        continuously adjusted to maximize the rate of blade 53        penetration in and through the target during the secondary stage        of cutting. The secondary stage falls within the region of the        target that falls between the initial full penetration of blade        53 (about 1 inch) and one third of the way through target 28        material. Typical feed rate pressure is 170 psi to 190 psi on        the feed rate pressure indicator gauge.    -   d. This feed or target penetration cut rate can be increased        dramatically during the third stage of the target 28, which        third stage falls within the region of blade 53 penetration        between one third and three fourths of the way through the        target 28 material. Increase in feed rate of blade 53 can be        controlled by operator 61 visually monitoring the cut rate of        blade 53 and maximizing the feed rate. Typical feed rate        pressure ranges between 170 pounds per square inch to as low as        140 pounds per square inch.    -   e. The feed rate slows during the final one fourth of the target        28 cut region as more surface area of the target 28 material is        encountered by blade 53 (assuming a cylindrically shaped target        28 with hollow core, such as a pipe). In the final stage, the        feed rate can be slowed by operator 61 restricting the pressure        bleed off for elevator 47, which increases the feed pressure to        about 160 pounds per square inch to 180 pounds per square inch        range.    -   f. When the cut is completed, blade 53 feed can be stopped via a        stop valve on control panel 60. This stop valve can remove the        feed control valve from the hydraulic circuit and allow saw 20        and blade 53 to be lifted from the cut zone and positioned for a        new cut via an infinitely variable elevator control valve on        control panel 60.

16. All hydraulic fluid flow can be disengaged via control panel 60 oncecut is complete or in the event that there is a blade 53 breakage.

17. Once cut is complete, blade can be stopped and saw 20 can be movedout of the cut zone via articulating motors 48 and 49. Vessel crane 15can move cut piece 57 from the work area into a nearby storage containerfor later transport to shore and disposal.

18. Saw 20 can be thoroughly rinsed with a freshwater solution and allmoving components lubricated.

19. After all target 28 sections (57, 57′, 57″, etc.) are cut, band saw20 can be articulated into its storage position and secured in place.All hydraulic hoses can be disconnected and stored for transport. Quickconnect fittings can be used between saw 20, control panel 60, and thehoses. The saw base 41 and support arms are unbolted and the entiresystem is transported.

20. Saw 20 can be maintained on standby until further use is needed.

21. All video footage can be recorded is reviewed for analysis andimprovement.

The following is a Table of Reference Numerals and their descriptions.

TABLE OF REFERENCE NUMERALS Reference Numeral Description 10 pipecutting system 11 barge/vessel 12 deck 13 water surface 14 seabed 15first lift apparatus/crane 16 second lift apparatus/crane 17 lift line18 lift line 19 stinger 20 articulating band saw 21 pipe support/roller22 pipe support/roller 23 pipe support/roller 24 pipe support/roller 25pipe support/roller 26 winch 27 winch cable 28 pipeline 29 rigging 30pipe end 31 arrow 32 arrow 33 connection 34 arrow 35 pipe support frame36 pipe support roller 38 catch basin 39 insulation 40 saw support frame41 foot 42 fastener 43 column 44 slot 45 upper end portion 46 lower endportion 47 elevator 48 hydraulic actuator 49 hydraulic actuator 50 bandsaw 51 band saw housing 52 motor drive 53 band 54 saw teeth 55 arm 56arm 57 cut section 58 arrow 59 arrow 60 hydraulic control panel 61operator 62 controls/levers 63 instruments 64 header 65 nozzle 66 fluidspray 67 arrow 68 elevated pipe position 69 elevated pipe position 70rotational position 71 rotational position 72 articulating diamond wiresaw 73 hydraulic actuator 74 hydraulic actuator 75 hydraulic actuator 76frame/elevator 77 arm 78 arm 79 u-shaped frame 80 diamond wire 81concavity 82 end 83 end 84 roller guide 85 roller guide 86 roller guide90 arrow 100 cylinder 110 rod 112 arrow 114 arrow 116 arrow 125 shut offlever 140 articulating boom 150 arrow 152 arrow 154 arrows 156 arrows160 arrow 162 arrow 164 arrows 170 sliding boom 172 track 173 first end174 second end 175 slot 176 roller 177 roller 180 cylinder 182 rod 190support arm 192 support arm 200 retainer 210 brace portion 220 bearingportion 250 target 252 upper section 254 lower section 256 second lowersection 260 support rod 262 support rod 270 riser, casing, or well bore272 top of remaining riser, casing, or wellbore 280 arrow 282 arrow 230angle 300 camera 310 monitor 400 drain line and sump pump

All measurements disclosed herein are at standard temperature andpressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated otherwise. Allmaterials used or intended to be used in a human being arebiocompatible, unless indicated otherwise.

The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; thescope of the present invention is to be limited only by the followingclaims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An articulating band saw apparatus,comprising: a) a frame that includes a vertically extending sectionhaving upper and lower end portions; b) an elevator that moves betweenthe upper and lower end portions; c) a first powered actuator supportedon the elevator for movement therewith; d) a first arm having arm endportions, the first arm supported by the first hydraulic actuator; e) asecond powered actuator supported by the first arm at a position spacedaway from the first powered actuator; f) a second arm supported by thesecond powered actuator; g) an endless band type saw mounted on the freeend of the second arm spaced away from the second actuator, the band sawincluding a band saw frame and a cutting blade; h) wherein the band sawis movable by articulation of the first and second actuators andresulting movement of the first and second arms.
 2. The band sawapparatus of claim 1, wherein the actuators are independentlycontrollable with the control panel.
 3. The band saw apparatus of claim1, wherein the elevator and actuators are remotely controlled from aremotely located control panel spaced away from the saw blade.
 4. Theband saw apparatus of claim 1, wherein the band saw is movablehorizontally and vertically by the actuators.
 5. The band saw apparatusof claim 1, wherein the saw blade can be positioned with the actuatorsat an angle relative to horizontal.
 6. The band saw apparatus of claim1, wherein the saw blade is powered by a motor, and the band saw motortorque is maximized by applying up to two thousand five hundred (2,500)pounds per square inch of hydraulic pressure that is determined by thecutting feed rate.
 7. The band saw apparatus of claim 1, wherein theelevator travels between elevated and lowered positions upon a frame,and a hydraulic lift cylinder connects between the frame and theelevator.
 8. The band saw apparatus of claim 7, wherein the controlpanel has a pressure gauge for monitoring hydraulic pressure of the liftcylinder, a lift cylinder control valve that enables control of elevatorposition, and wherein a saw cutting rate can be controlled by operatormonitoring of the pressure gauge and by operator control of the liftcylinder control valve.
 9. The band saw apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a fluid delivery flow line that enables transmission ofcooling or lubrication fluid to the saw blade and target for freezing atleast a portion of the target during a cut.
 10. The band saw apparatusof claim 3, further comprising a camera that enables viewing of thecutting blade and a monitor next to the control panel that enables theoperator to view the cutting blade during cutting.
 11. The band sawapparatus of claim 1, wherein the saw blade is diamond wire, andcomprising multiple roller guides on the band saw frame that support thediamond wire.
 12. An articulating band saw apparatus, comprising: a) aframe that includes a vertically extending section having upper andlower end portions; b) an elevator that moves between the upper andlower end portions; c) a powered articulating boom mounted on theelevator; d) an endless band type saw mounted on the free end of theboom, the band saw including a band saw frame and a cutting blade; ande) wherein the band saw is movable in a vertical plane, both verticallyand horizontally by articulation of the boom.
 13. The band saw apparatusof claim 12, wherein the elevator and boom are remotely controlled froma remotely located control panel spaced away from the saw blade.
 14. Theband saw apparatus of claim 12, wherein the band saw is movablehorizontally and vertically by the boom.
 15. The band saw apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the saw blade can be positioned with the boom at anangle relative to horizontal.
 16. The band saw apparatus of claim 12,wherein the elevator travels between elevated and lowered positions upona frame, and a hydraulic lift cylinder connects between the frame andthe elevator.
 17. The band saw apparatus of claim 13, wherein thecontrol panel has a pressure gauge for monitoring hydraulic pressure ofthe lift cylinder, a lift cylinder control valve that enables control ofelevator position, and wherein a saw cutting rate can be controlled byoperator monitoring of the pressure gauge and by operator control of thelift cylinder control valve.
 18. The band saw apparatus of claim 12,further comprising a fluid delivery flow line that enables transmissionof cooling or lubrication fluid to the saw blade and target for freezingat least a portion of the target during a cut.
 19. The band sawapparatus of claim 18, further comprising a camera that enables viewingof the cutting blade and a monitor next to the control panel thatenables the operator to view the cutting blade during cutting.
 20. Theband saw apparatus of claim 1, wherein the saw blade is diamond wire,and comprising multiple roller guides on the band saw frame that supportthe diamond wire.